President Donald Trump has announced a temporary halt on tariffs involving China for 90 days as both nations work towards a final agreement.
China has expressed discontent with the recent US-UK trade deal, which it claims could exclude Chinese goods from the UK’s supply network.
This agreement, established last week between the US and the UK, incorporates stringent security measures for the steel and pharmaceutical sectors in the UK.
In response to inquiries about the deal, China stated that a fundamental principle should be that no country should target another in trade dealings, as reported by the Financial Times.
“Cooperation among nations should not create disadvantages for third parties,” noted China’s Foreign Ministry in a statement.
The Secretary of Commerce remarked that increased transactions linked to the US-UK trade deal are beneficial for the economy.
China has criticized the trade agreement made between the US and the UK last week for its potential to displace Chinese products from the UK market. (Curl Court – Pool /Getty Images /Getty Images)
China cautioned that US negotiations shouldn’t compromise its interests, warning that the US could push UK partnerships to sever ties with China.
The trade deal has resulted in the Trump administration reducing tariffs on UK-made vehicles and steel, while still imposing a base 10% duty on British imports.
As reported by the FT, the UK is expected to comply swiftly with the US government’s requirements regarding supply chain safety and ownership of production facilities. British officials mentioned that Trump’s focus was aimed specifically at China.
The terms dictate that tariff relief on UK products will rely on reviews assessing the impact of certain imports on US national security.
The US-UK trade deal includes stringent security protocols for the UK’s steel and pharmaceutical sectors. (Getty Images)
The UK’s acceptance of US security conditions was particularly surprising to Beijing, especially since Prime Minister Kiel Starmer had been trying to mend relations with China, commented a trade-focused government adviser to the FT.
“China has to act — the UK shouldn’t have rushed into this agreement,” said a Chinese government advisor.
The UK administration confirmed the signing of the trade deal with the US, stating it would preserve numerous jobs in critical sectors and create a solid foundation for future trade.
Trump described the UK trade deal as “an incredible day for America.”
China emphasizes that trade agreements should be a “basic principle” that avoids targeting other nations. (Getty Images)
The UK government reiterated that trade and investment with China are still crucial, stating it remains actively engaged with China and its global priorities.
On Monday, China and the US came to an agreement to reduce tariffs by 115% over 90 days while ongoing discussions for trade deals continue.
Both nations, which hold the largest economies globally, are involved in this trade atmosphere, which has seen rising tensions in recent weeks.
